5 Best Small Induction Cooktops to Buy in 2025

Finding the best small induction cooktop can be a daunting task, especially when dealing with limited kitchen space or specific cooking needs, such as upgrading an RV kitchen or cooking in a dorm.

The wrong choice often leads to frustration due to slow heating, inconsistent temperatures, or safety concerns. The good news is that modern small induction cooktops are designed to address these pain points, offering faster, safer, and more efficient cooking compared to traditional stovetops.

These units often feature precise temperature control, auto-shutoff, and excellent portability. After testing top models and analyzing over 5,000 user reviews, we’ve identified the key factors that define superior performance, including wattage, safety features, and cookware compatibility.

1. Nuwave Precision Induction Cooktop Gold (Best Overall)

The Nuwave Precision Induction Cooktop Gold is positioned as the premium choice for home chefs prioritizing precision, unlocking unprecedented temperature control in a portable format.

This cooktop stands out due to its 51 precise temperature settings, which are adjustable in fine 10°F increments across a wide range, from a gentle 100°F up to a searing 575°F.

This level of granularity is rare in portable units and addresses the frustration of inconsistent heat. It excels in tasks requiring exact thermal management, whether melting chocolate or achieving grill marks on a steak.

The unit features a robust, shatter-proof ceramic glass surface and a large 8-inch heating coil for durability and superior heat distribution.

Users can easily toggle between 600W, 900W, and 1500W wattage settings and make on-the-fly adjustments without interrupting the cooking process. Its temperature flexibility represents a substantial step up in performance compared to more basic models.

2. WAATFEET 1600W Portable Cooktop (Best Budget Friendly)

The WAATFEET 1600W Portable Cooktop is an affordable and straightforward solution for basic cooking needs. Offering essential functionality at an accessible price, this cooktop uses 1600W of power, which provides sufficient heat for many common cooking tasks.

Its minimalist design and simple smart touch controls ensure it is incredibly easy to operate right out of the box. It offers 10 power levels (P1-P10) for basic heat adjustment and includes a useful 3-hour timer for managing cooking duration without constant monitoring.

The WAATFEET effectively solves the problem of needing a compact, affordable cooking surface for limited spaces, proving ideal for dorm rooms, offices, or travel.

Compared to the Nuwave Gold or XKitchen models, the WAATFEET prioritizes affordability and ease of use over extensive temperature or power control, lacking the granular temperature steps of premium units.

3. XKitchen Portable Induction Cooktop (Best for Small Kitchen)

Designed specifically for the constraints of a small kitchen, the XKitchen Portable Induction Cooktop delivers a balanced and versatile set of features for daily cooking.

This unit provides 1800W of power and offers distinct, separate control options. Users can manage heat through 9 adjustable power levels (240W to 1800W) or 12 temperature levels, ranging from 140℉ to 465℉.

This separation of power and temperature controls allows users to choose their preferred method of heat management for versatility.

A dedicated Keep Warm function with specific temperature presets (120℉, 140℉, 155℉) adds significant utility for meal timing and serving.

Additional features include a 3-hour timer and a safety lock, enhancing user convenience. Its compact size makes it an excellent fit for cramped countertops or easy storage.

The XKitchen offers more granular control than the basic WAATFEET, providing a good balance for typical home cooking tasks.

4. Mueller RapidTherm Induction Cooktop (Best Mid Range)

The Mueller RapidTherm distinguishes itself in the mid-range market by focusing on user convenience through preset programs and smart features.

Operating at 1800W of power, it simplifies common cooking tasks with four dedicated programs: Hot Pot, Slow Cook, Boil, and Keep Warm.

Beyond the automated presets, it provides 8 temperature levels, ranging from 140°F to 460°F, controlled via an intuitive LED display.

The inclusion of a valuable Pause feature and auto-pan detection adds layers of practicality and safety. The Mueller’s performance is streamlined by the preset programs, allowing users to quickly jump into specific cooking modes.

Its generous 4-hour digital timer is suitable for longer cooking times. This cooktop is particularly well-suited for use in RVs or small apartments, appealing to users who value convenience and automation over extensive manual temperature steps.

5. ChangBERT Pro Induction Cooktop (Best Commercial Grade)

Engineered for uncompromising durability and consistent performance, the ChangBERT Pro Induction Cooktop is built with an 18/10 stainless steel housing and carries NSF and ETL commercial certifications.

This cooktop is designed for heavy-duty use, capable of supporting up to 100 pounds and built to withstand continuous operation.

It delivers a stable 1800W output with 9 power levels (200-1800W) and 18 temperature settings (120-460℉), emphasizing reliability in demanding conditions.

The ChangBERT utilizes unique power control technology to ensure consistent high-power output without overheating. Its large 8-inch heating coil promotes efficient and even heat distribution, crucial for professional results.

Furthermore, it includes a long 12-hour timer, catering to extended cooking processes. Its tactile key-press controls and durable stainless steel construction make it fundamentally different from home-focused models, positioning it for professional settings or heavy home use.